This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a winner! The chicken is tender inside and the outside is perfectly crunchy with a tasty cheesy layer. Who can resist that?
I love how quick and easy this dish is to whip up. Just coat the chicken, pop it in the oven and you’re ready for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and lean. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Turkey cutlets can also work if you’re looking for a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. You can use a store-bought grated version, but avoid the powdered kind. For a twist, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These give a fantastic crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs are fine, but the texture won’t be as airy. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or crush some cornflakes.
Spices: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add loads of flavor. For a kick, consider adding paprika or cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be used instead of dried for a fresher taste.
Olive Oil: If you’re looking to cut calories, cooking spray works well for baking. For frying, light olive oil or avocado oil are great alternatives.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is essential! Here are a few tips to ensure success:
- Start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness; this helps it cook evenly.
- Using a meat thermometer is a game changer. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure your chicken is safe and juicy.
- If frying, watch the heat closely. Too high, and the coating will burn before the chicken cooks. Medium heat is perfect.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps the juices inside and helps it stay tender.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken every time!
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes of cooking time. If you’re frying, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes total, and if you’re baking, it’ll take about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Easy and quick for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the chicken. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a quick spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is evenly mixed for a flavorful coating.
3. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
In a separate shallow dish, put the flour. In another bowl, crack and beat the eggs. You’ll use these stations for coating the chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin to make sure it’s an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season both sides with a little salt and pepper.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Start by dredging each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-panko mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Press firmly to help it stick.
6. Cook the Chicken:
For frying, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer them to a baking sheet and place them in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer baking, simply place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
7. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken juicy and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot with your favorite sides! A crisp salad or some roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with this dish.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result and a bit more flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs usually take a little longer to reach the same internal temperature.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko bread crumbs. This will keep the crispy texture without the gluten.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain the crispiness.
Can I Freeze This Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken for up to 2 months. Just place the pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
